Rationale for the Church

Many religious educators and long standing ministers are worried about the vitality and health of today’s established congregations. Loren Mead, author of “Transforming Congregations for the Future” and Roy Phillips, author of “Letting Go, Transforming Congregations for the Ministry”, feel the way of the future is shared ministry. They both believe that the minister can no longer do it all and the laity must be empowered to carry out their own personal ministry in the world. It is theologically sound that all members, clergy and laity alike, carry out the work of the church. In traditional congregations, growth and health are limited when ministry is relegated to only trained clergy.

   Pastoral care, which has always been an integral part of the church life, has typically been a responsibility of clergy. Such a restriction can clearly be a limiting factor in the size and health of a church. How many people can one minister, or one quarter time minister serve well? In today’s world of impersonal health care, how much can a minister provide, other than an occasional visit and phone call?

   By allowing the laity to develop their own personal ministry in this area of church need, the congregation will be energized. By having a Pastoral Care Team, the benefits are many. The minister is relieved from overwork. However, in our case the minister must be substituted for. The Pastoral Care Team is fulfilled through their personal ministry based on their own gifts. Individuals in the congregation benefit from feeling cared about and supported through life transitions. Members feel as though they belong to a truly caring community. The overall health of the church improves from increased energy, a feeling of community and decreased anxiety.

   A comfortable working relationship with the minister is essential for the operation of a Pastoral Care Team and the health of the church. Next month, Collaboration with the Minister will be the topic.

             - Barbara Kovach